Fish and shellfish suppliers have more strategic options than ever to start or grow their exports in 2026!
As Food Export-Northeast launches the 2026 Program Year, Northeast U.S. fish and shellfish suppliers have more strategic options than ever to start or grow their exports. Backed by federal funding and an ambitious global vision, Food Export’s 2026 offerings have been carefully designed to support small- and medium-sized fish and shellfish companies in accessing new international export opportunities, with a special emphasis on market diversification, retention, and ROI.
Food Export’s Branded Program, offering 50% cost reimbursement for international marketing activities, is now open for 2026 applications. The program can cover a range of export marketing and promotion expenses such as retail and foodservice promotions, package and labeling modification required by foreign markets, social media, digital marketing and much more.
Check out the whole host of updated Branded Program resources here to strategize new ways to utilize the program or hone in on the latest guidelines and valuable insights in the Branded Exporter Manual. The first step of the application process is pre-qualification. One incentive for the early bird – suppliers who submit their complete application by December 31, 2025 will save $50 on the application fee.
In addition to the ever-popular Branded Program, Food Export offers comprehensive exporter education and market entry activities to provide export know-how and connections to qualified buyers in supportive settings. “The 2026 Program Year reflects the most strategically aligned and globally responsive set of offerings we’ve ever launched,” said Teresa Miller, Chief Program and Partnership Officer. “We’ve expanded our reach into growth markets while continuing to enhance the exporter journey with more bundled services, better buyer targeting, and next-level support.”
Some market entry highlights in the next year include tried and true seafood-focused events as well as broader-focused events which include tailored tracks for seafood exporters and meetings with qualified fish and shellfish importers:
Food Show PLUS! at Gulfood 2026
For the first time, Food Export will offer an open-space concept for companies looking to exhibit at one of the largest food trade shows in the world. Additional details available soon. Stay tuned!
To learn more, visit our Seafood Program page or email info@foodexport.org. Food Export’s dedication to delivering outstanding value remains stronger than ever. Food Export is committed to continuous improvement and providing suppliers with value that exceeds the price. Visit foodexport.org to learn more.
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Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. (Not all bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations or alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact us. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online https://www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer.
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast reserve the right to deny services to any firm or individual which, in the sole opinion of Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast, does not comply with FAS, MAP or Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast regulations or policies, or otherwise offer the best opportunity to achieve its mission of increasing food and agricultural exports. Submission of any false or misleading information may be grounds for rejection or subsequent revocation of any application or participation. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast are equal opportunity employers and providers.